When is Eid al-Fitr 2026? What to Know About the End of Ramadan Eid al-Fitr, the Islamic holiday marking the end of Ramadan, is expected to begin on the evening of March 19 or March 20, 2026, depending on the sighting of the waxing crescent moon. This date signals the start of the Islamic month of Shawwal and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which is also known as the "festival of breaking the fast." The holiday is observed by nearly 2 billion Muslims worldwide, including approximately 1% of Ohioans, and is tied to the lunar Hijri calendar. Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, concludes with Eid al-Fitr, which follows the sighting of the crescent moon. The exact date varies each year because the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, causing the start of Ramadan and Eid holidays to shift approximately 11 days earlier each year compared to the previous year. For 2026, the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr are anticipated around March 19 or 20, with the first day of Shawwal immediately following the moon’s sighting. Eid al-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month in the Islamic calendar. It is one of two major Islamic festivals, the other being Eid al-Adha. While the holiday is traditionally observed on a single day, many Muslims extend the celebration for up to three days, gathering with family and friends. The festivities include prayers at local mosques, feasts, and the exchange of gifts, particularly for children. A key tradition of Eid al-Fitr is the charitable donation known as Zakat al-Fitr. This obligation requires Muslims with income to give a donation to the poor before the Eid prayers, ensuring that all can participate in the celebrations. The donation is meant to cover the cost of a meal for those in need, reflecting the Islamic emphasis on charity and community support.#shawwal #islamic_calendar #ramadan #eid_al_fitr #eid_al_adha
